So I've been relishing the opportunity to expand my birding experience. Early retirement is only selfish if you are part of a key team for an important institution. But I've always been self employed so basically it's up to me to make the big decision... I did it!
I am so proud to have been given the opportunity to join the Teifi Ringing Group (teifimarshbirds.blogspot.co.uk), I really want to dedicate more of my time to aiding bird conservation and it's fun to get involved with the team (they have been very welcoming).
I also want to do some kind of practical conservation work, either with the Wildlife Trust or the RSPB maybe at Ynys Hir.
Life's story aside, the first thing I had to do was decide how I can get up to speed with the rest of the UK birding community. Seriously there are so many birds that everyone else must view as basic species, but which I still need to see for myself (my life list is an entry level 102). With this in mind I have planned some interesting birding trips before winter: Firstly I am going to cover some of the best spots along the North Wales coastline starting with Burton Mere and including my favourite reserve (RSPB Conwy). Other trips are to Bardsey, Snettisham, a weekend on Skokholm, and as we have friends in Whitby I plan to visit Spurn this summer. My personal favourites are sea birds and waders so I am looking forward to some lovely experiences. This first year for me is all about taking the plunge, I just hope my lovely wife doesn't feel too neglected.
I would be pleased to receive any advice on locations not mentioned, which are good for rare sea birds from those who are in the know.
I am so proud to have been given the opportunity to join the Teifi Ringing Group (teifimarshbirds.blogspot.co.uk), I really want to dedicate more of my time to aiding bird conservation and it's fun to get involved with the team (they have been very welcoming).
I also want to do some kind of practical conservation work, either with the Wildlife Trust or the RSPB maybe at Ynys Hir.
Life's story aside, the first thing I had to do was decide how I can get up to speed with the rest of the UK birding community. Seriously there are so many birds that everyone else must view as basic species, but which I still need to see for myself (my life list is an entry level 102). With this in mind I have planned some interesting birding trips before winter: Firstly I am going to cover some of the best spots along the North Wales coastline starting with Burton Mere and including my favourite reserve (RSPB Conwy). Other trips are to Bardsey, Snettisham, a weekend on Skokholm, and as we have friends in Whitby I plan to visit Spurn this summer. My personal favourites are sea birds and waders so I am looking forward to some lovely experiences. This first year for me is all about taking the plunge, I just hope my lovely wife doesn't feel too neglected.
I would be pleased to receive any advice on locations not mentioned, which are good for rare sea birds from those who are in the know.